Longwan National Forest Park

Longwan National Forest Park

Longwan National Forest Park is a national-level forest park.

Introduction: Longwan National Forest Park is situated in the southeastern part of Huinan County, Jilin Province, within the Longgang Mountain Range of the Changbai Mountain system. The park spans 8,102 hectares, comprising 6,780 hectares of forest, 227 hectares of water bodies, and 1,095 hectares of other land types. It was designated as a national forest park by the State Forestry Administration (then the Ministry of Forestry) in 1992. Within the park, the “Seven Bays, One Lake, and Two Peaks”—comprising Triangle Dragon Bay, Big Dragon Bay, Second Dragon Bay, Small Dragon Bay, East Dragon Bay, South Dragon Bay, Dry Dragon Bay, Diaoshui Lake (waterfall), Golden Dragon Peak, and Square Peak—form ten major scenic areas, with over a hundred attractions in total. Longwan refers to high-mountain lakes formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. The “Seven Bays” have an average depth of about 50 meters, with the deepest reaching 100 meters. The bay waters are jade-blue and vary in shape and scenery, resembling scattered pearls amidst the lofty mountains. Their large number, concentrated distribution, unique forms, and well-preserved state rank them first in China.

　The “One Lake” refers to the Diaoshui Lake Waterfall. Also formed by volcanic eruptions and riverbed shifts, the waterfall is about 10 meters wide with a drop of 6 meters. Its uniqueness lies in another stream that resembles a fountain cascading down the cliff, or water pouring from a teapot’s spout—hence locals also call it “Diaoshuihu” (Hanging Water Kettle). The scenery at Diaoshui Lake is spectacular and pristine, with crystal-clear waters where fish can be seen swimming. In winter, the water doesn’t freeze, while in summer, it is bone-chillingly cold, with splashing droplets and surrounding mist bringing a refreshing coolness that invigorates the body and mind—making it an ideal summer retreat. The “Two Peaks” refer to Golden Dragon Peak and Square Peak, both steep, abrupt peaks formed by crustal uplift. With elevations exceeding 1,000 meters, they feature dense forests, extraordinary landscapes, and are further enriched by beautiful legends.

Longwan boasts layers upon layers of beauty and forests stretching for miles. It is not only a scenic paradise but also a precious treasure trove of natural resources. The area features rich vegetation and dense woods, with over 500 species of plants. It abounds in valuable medicinal plants such as ginseng, gastrodia elata, and codonopsis, and has substantial reserves of kiwi fruit and mountain grapes. There is also an abundance of wild delicacies like bracken, puffball mushrooms, elm yellow mushrooms, and bracken shoots.

Fifty-six species of wild animals inhabit the park. Rabbits, foxes, and roe deer frequently roam the forests, while capercaillies and pheasants nest among the trees. Toads and frogs are commonly seen in streams and valleys, and there are thousands of artificially bred sika deer.

Mineral water resources are not only abundant here but also rich in various trace elements. Testing has shown that they meet national standards, and development is now underway. Volcanic slag and limestone are also found in particularly large reserves and have already been put into use.

In 1992, the Longwan tourist area was approved as a national forest park. In recent years, the Huinan County Party Committee and County Government have increased investment in developing Longwan, carrying out extensive construction in communication, accommodation, and cultural attractions. Plans are underway to integrate it with the Changbai Mountain region, creating a new, comprehensive multi-functional tourist destination that combines sightseeing, hunting, skiing, ice-skating, health retreats, and scientific research.　

Jilin Tonghua City